Lucia Napolez
Individual Award

Lucia Napolez is a dedicated advocate, organizer, and community leader whose work in Chula Vista and beyond centers on equity, inclusion, and cultural revitalization. A first-generation Mexican American and third-generation Yaqui, Lucia co-founded the Native American Students and Allies (NASA) organization at Southwestern College, where they helped create the college’s first-ever powwow—building space for Indigenous pride, education, and community connection. Beyond campus, Lucia has served on the City of Chula Vista’s Technology and Privacy Advisory Task Force and worked with organizations such as the Alliance of Californians for Community Empowerment, the San Diego Leadership Alliance, and The San Diego LGBT Community Center. Through mentorship, advocacy, and bridge-building, Lucia continues to champion a more just and compassionate community for all.

Kensington Duran-Almodovar
Youth Award

Kensington Duran-Almodovar is an exceptional student and community leader whose dedication to service and learning has already made a lasting impact in Chula Vista. A Bonita Vista High School student with a perfect 4.0 GPA and recognition as an AP

Scholar, Kensington balances rigorous academics with a deep commitment to helping others. His volunteer work spans Scripps Hospital, the American Red Cross, and the Special Olympics, where he supports patients, assists in community events, and inspires those around him with empathy and kindness.

Beyond volunteering, Kensington co-founded a nonprofit robotics organization that serves elementary schools across the South Bay, introducing young students to STEM. He also launched a new nonprofit that develops leadership and outdoor programs for at-risk youth. Through every endeavor—from mentoring peers to comforting children at an oncology camp—Kensington demonstrates compassion, integrity, and leadership well beyond his years. His service reflects the very best of Chula Vista’s youth and the bright future they represent.

Edilberto "Papa Ed" Samala
Lifetime Achievement Award

For more than five decades, Edilberto “Papa Ed” Samala has devoted his life to serving others with compassion, humility, and faith. A proud Chula Vista resident and U.S. Navy veteran, Papa Ed has spent over 52 years working to feed, support, and uplift the most vulnerable members of our region—including seniors, veterans, families, and individuals experiencing homelessness. As co-founder of Life Acts, a ministry outreach of Life Christian Center International Ministries, Papa Ed leads an extraordinary effort that provides food and resources to more than 18,000 people every month. Through partnerships with Feeding San Diego, the San Diego Food Bank, and local businesses, he has helped recover nearly 17 million pounds of food that would otherwise go to waste—transforming both lives and environmental outcomes.

A disabled Vietnam War veteran and widower, Papa Ed has continued the mission he once shared with his late wife, Pastor Rosario “Charing” Samala, with tireless dedication and joy. At 80 years young, he continues to serve daily—picking up food, mentoring volunteers, and living his belief that love in action can change lives. Papa Ed’s enduring service and spirit of generosity have made him a true community champion and a beacon of compassion for Chula Vista and beyond.

Let's Go South Bay
Organization Award

Let’s Go South Bay is a local organization dedicated to empowering young girls in the South Bay through the game of soccer. Each year, they host a free weeklong camp in Chula Vista for about 65 girls, providing them with soccer equipment, nutrition resources, and college information to help them grow both on and off the field. Guided by their mission to advocate for equitable access to parks, athletic fields, and youth soccer, Let’s Go South Bay envisions a thriving South Bay where recreation helps girls build confidence, care for their health, and find their power. Through sport, mentorship, and community, they continue to create opportunities for girls to lead, belong, and shine.